Guide to Body of Laws of the colony of Rhode Island | State Archives Catalog

The Body of Laws of the colony of RI consists of statutes and other legislation enacted by the General Assembly of the Colony of Rhode Island from 1663 to 1705. The laws pertain to the governance of the colony and the responsibilities of public servants; the punishment of crimes; treason; elections; the organization of the colonial courts; the militia; taxes and fees. Laws also pertain to personal behavior, including sexuality and the behavior of children toward parents; the obligations of laborers; the maintenance of property; fraud; slander; servitude; and Negroes and Indians. There are articles and agreements between the colonies of Rhode Island and Connecticut concerning boundaries.